Authorities have declared a police curfew in the Ragama Police Division after violence erupted at Mahara Prison, resulting in at least one death and multiple injuries.
A police curfew has been imposed in the Ragama Police Division effective immediately, police announced following renewed unrest at Mahara Prison. The measure will remain in effect until further notice as authorities work to restore order in the affected area.
The disturbance began after reports of a tense situation within the prison facility. A significant fire subsequently broke out in a prison building, leaving at least one inmate dead and six others injured. Seven individuals were transported to Ragama Hospital for treatment, with one casualty confirmed by hospital sources.
Tensions escalated when gunshots were reportedly heard from within the prison grounds, drawing relatives of inmates and local residents to the area. As crowds gathered, confrontations occurred between security forces and civilians attempting to breach police barricades. According to accounts from the scene, individuals allegedly threw stones at security personnel during the altercation.
In response to the escalating situation, the Sri Lanka Air Force deployed a Bell 412 helicopter and drones for aerial monitoring of the prison vicinity. Authorities also positioned water cannon vehicles near the facility to assist in crowd dispersal and control efforts. These measures reflect the scale of the security response as officials sought to contain the unrest and prevent further disturbances in the area surrounding the prison.
